Are you writing for publication?

Finding the right market is the really hard part! Go to the bookstore and browse mags which contain short stories, as a start. Sign up for Writers Market on-line, it's much easier to search. I do have the book, of course, but it's not always easy to say what a piece is for sure. Fiction/non-fiction, no problem; humor/science fiction/religious/political - now how do you find a market for that piece?! Check out Publishers Weekly (at your library, it's expensive!), see if you spot anything that looks helpful.

I'm also partial to conferences, look for ones attended by big names (because it's less likely to be just a fund-raiser for some yutz), which offer an opportunity to meet editors and agents. The editors I've met at various places are all (1) avid readers, and (2) eager to find work to buy (no work, no mag, - no mag, no job, no money, no groceries!). Keep in mind, editors and agents who go to these things WANT to find good stuff, but if they find 90% good, they may just work with you a bit to make it perfect for them. Of course, that's key, too, "perfect FOR THEM"! You might be asked to emphasize something so the story will fit better with what their readers are in to. Don't get defensive over your deathless prose, if you can give an editor what's wanted, they'll be a lot readier to read the next piece you send them.

Also, besides checking out conferences, look at workshops. You would not believe who I met at Clarion West! You may think you spend a lot on postage before you get published, but it's worth it.

I also know that the phrase "starving student" is redundant, don't be shy about asking if conferences and workshops have scholarship money available, most of them do.

Good luck, keep me posted,
Chris


Chriswriter
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"It is never too late to be what you might have been."George Eliot

"I like not only to be loved, but to be told that I am loved, for the realm of darkness is great beyond the grave." George Eliot

"Maturity is overrated." Garfield

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